ZFM Country

Brittany Elise Launches Into 2024 With First Written And Recorded Nashville Single, ‘Lucky’.

Ahead of another huge year which will see performances and tours in the US and Australia, Brittany Elise will release her first single of 2024, ‘Lucky’ on Friday, 8th March.

The Gympie Muster Australia Talent Search winner and Toyota Star Maker Australia finalist, wrote the song alongside hugely successful Nashville songwriters, Frank Barrier and Alayna Carroll, whilst in the United States.

Brittany Elise says the new track came to life after having a conversation about how small-town people can achieve big dreams but sometimes people forget the hard work that goes on behind the scenes when someone reaches success.

“I started thinking about how I started saving my pocket money from the age of 12 for my very first car, the many heartbreaks and let downs you may go through to find love, and the sacrifices and hard knocks that come with following a dream. The lyrics just flowed. What many of us consider to be luck, for a lot of people is a result of never-ending hard work and difficult choices,” said Brittany Elise.

The production of Lucky came to life in a Nashville studio working alongside Michael and Caleb Flanders. “The day in the studio was so special. I really wanted this song to be a true representation of the Nashville sound. The incredible musicians I was working with in Nashville, took my vision and created something magical,” said Brittany Elise.

It’s already been a huge start to 2024 with Brittany Elise named a finalist in the ICMA Awards for Female Artist Of The Year and Album Of The Year. Her last single, ‘Get This Party Started’ hit #1 on the Australian radio charts.

Brittany Elise is on a roll with her electric performances, just completing a 30-show Something About This Town Australian tour in December 2023. Her festival appearances in 2023 included the 50th CMAFest in Nashville Tennessee, Tamworth Country Music Festival, Gympie Music Muster, Deni Ute Muster, NQ Rock’n Country, Airlie Beach Music Festival and Brisbane Ekka.

Brittany Elise has been making waves both in Australia and the United States, opening for US artists Craig Wayne Boyd, The Voice US Winner and Morgan Myles, The Voice US Runner Up, as well as with Australian artists James Johnston, Amber Lawrence, and Darlinghurst. Last year also saw career highlights with sold out album launches and singing the National Anthem at a National Rugby League game.

Brittany Elise has released top 10 debuting singles, ‘Get This Party Started’, ‘Something About This Town’, ‘Like Me That Way’, ‘Feel The Fire’ and ‘Find Your Music’, with two songs hitting #1 on the Australian radio charts, as well as being added to various editorial playlists on both Spotify and Apple Music, and high rotation on countless national radio stations.

Growing up in Central Queensland, Mackenzie May is proof positive that a drive to succeed and a heart for music will turn heads, no matter where you are.

Just a couple of months out of high school, the seventeen year old has quietly, but confidently carved out a place in the country scene and is releasing her first single Little Things on March 1 .

Co-written with Sarah Buckley (The Buckleys), it’s the first recorded taste of Mackenzie May’s work, but it’s been years of shows and paying her dues, graduating from the esteemed Junior Academy of Country Music and becoming a finalist in the 2023 Ekka Country Music Showdown.

Just last month she played half a dozen shows at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, everything from stages to pavements, getting out there in front of people to showcase her songs and walked away with her first professional award and the title of the prestigious Tamworth Songwriters Association’s Novice Songwriter of the Year. Not interested in chasing stardom, for Mackenzie, music is a passion and an art and she takes inspiration from authentic and emotional artists like Chris Stapleton, Colter Wall and Sierra Ferrell.

“I’m really excited to be releasing music for the first time,” she explained. “For me the creative process of writing, recording and performing is what it’s all about and if people like what I’m doing as much as I am enjoying that process then that’s really what I’m hoping to achieve.”

Her first recording experience came late last year as part of a QUT project, followed by a session with producer Jared Adlam where Little Things was born.

“The studio was a really natural space for me and I really enjoy the creativity that studio space brings out,” said Mackenzie. “As an independent artist, you get used to doing so many shows and learning about the reaction your songs get, whether it’s in a cafe or on a bigger stage. The studio gives you the opportunity to take everything you’ve learned from road testing your songs with an audience and create something that represents who you are at a point in time.”

If Little Things is that representation, then Mackenzie May has an extraordinary future ahead. Little Things is an ear-worm, but maintains a country integrity that displays a musical wisdom that explains the accolades and interest that continue to grow over her burgeoning career.

Following the release of ‘Straight Line’ only a month ago, Keith Urban has revealed another new song from a planned new album to be released later in 2024
Asked about the meaning behind ‘Mess Up As Me’ Keith said: “Let’s put it this way. Most of us have been in dysfunctional relationships before, where there’s not a lot of compatibility, except for that one area where it’s so good you put up with all the rest. A phone call or a night out and you’re right back where you shouldn’t be.”
Produced by Keith and longtime collaborator Dann Huff
Keith has sold over 20 Million albums, amassed over 10 Billion streams, won 4 Grammy Awards, 6 ARIA Awards, 4 American Music Awards, 13 Country Music Association Awards, 12 Academy of Country Music Awards

Jake Whittaker Drops New Single, ‘Shoey’.

Fresh from the stage of Toyota Star Maker, singer-songwriter Jake Whittaker rocking the airwaves with his latest single, ‘Shoey’, out March 1.

Love them or hate them, ‘Shoey’ captures the essence of one part of Australian country festival culture with its infectious beats and playful lyrics.

Inspired by an idea from songwriter Gavin Carfoot, ‘Shoey’ embodies the spirit of mateship and mischief that defines the Australian way of life. Collaborating with producer and musician Jared Adlam and Gavin, Jake crafted a song that celebrates the uniquely Australian tradition of the ‘shoey’ with unbridled enthusiasm.

“I’m partial to a good shoey,” Jake laughed.

“Audiences can be guaranteed of at least one at every gig, and I’ve never been sick from one.”

With its infectious energy, ‘Shoey’ is guaranteed to get crowds on their feet, kicking off their boots, and joining in the fun. Whether it’s at a live performance or a rowdy gathering, ‘Shoey’ is the ultimate anthem for letting loose and embracing the Aussie spirit.

As the perfect soundtrack for parties, festivals, and everything in between, there are hopes it could become the unofficial theme song of CMC Rocks.

Prepare to kick your boots off and join in the fun as Jake unleashes Shoey across digital platforms.

Piper Rodrigues Rides High After 2024 Toyota Star Maker Finals And Releases ‘Watch Your Step’.

The new single from 2024 Toyota Star Maker Top 10 Finalist, Piper Rodrigues ‘Watch Your Step’, is a departure from the past and a step into a new direction. Co-written with Hayley Marsten and produced by Shane Nicholson, this alt-country song is fused with a dash of pop and is the soundtrack to a perpetual coming of age in the death of a first romance. Rodrigues captures the pop sensibilities, chaos without the calm and melancholy messaging from our favourite tracks of the early 2000’s, however, simultaneously tips her hat to the experimental sounds of the 60’s and 70’s via curious guitar parts and unique song structure. ‘Watch Your Step’ is an ode to the overthinker, a reminder that they aren’t alone. If people came with warning signs, this would be hers.

“I’m excited to get this song out into the world! I had the absolute time of my life playing it in the Grand Finals for Toyota Star Maker this year. Honesty is something I always strive for in my songwriting and ‘Watch Your Step’ is EXACTLY that. This song is for the people that overthink nearly every awkward interaction they’ve ever had on a nightly basis”.

Piper hails from Newcastle and now calls Brisbane home. This exciting rising artist is constantly creating a unique and curious sound that blurs the line between commercial and alt-country, with dashes country, blues, and pop scattered throughout. She is a dedicated and passion artist with a drive to take her career all the way. Growing up an only child, she found music at an early age.

She learnt her first guitar chords form her grandfather, John Manners who had a deep love for the craft and history as a member of Ray Brown and the Whispers’, and a career in community radio. Her teen years were spent writing songs and diving deeper into her passion for playing guitar and singing. She has since racked up many achievements as a graduate of the 2020 CMAA Academy of Country Music, runner-up in Today’s Country 94 One 2022 Brand New Star Competition and recognised as a finalist in the 2024 Toyota Star Maker Competition. She has support Hayley Jensen, Amber Lawrence, Hussy Hicks, Ashleigh Dallas, Allison Forbes, Tori Forsyth, and Catherine Britt.

Her four singles have debuted in the AMRAP Regional Top 10 with her most recent ‘Exit Wound’ debuting at #2, and gained various Apple Music playlists.

With more songs on the way, this is just the beginning for Piper Rodrigues.

Piper Rodrigues’ new single ‘Watch Your Step’ is out to radio and all digital platforms on Friday 1st March.

Ryan Mead unveils debut single, ‘Tangled Up In Wranglers’.

Emerging country music artist Ryan Mead has blended 90s country influences and Tex-Mex vibes to create his debut single, ‘Tangled Up In Wranglers’, marking the beginning of an exciting chapter in his budding career.

“I’m pretty sporadic with my songwriting, but ‘Tangled Up In Wranglers’ came from the first time I actually sat down to write a song and wrote a song,” Ryan said.

“I was listening to lots of 90s country, especially Tex-Mex stuff like George Strait when I wrote it.”

The track, which came together in just one day, began with a distinctive guitar riff.

“I had a notepad in front of me from when I was in the US in 2022, filled with words that I thought went well together with the inspiration for the song coming from honky tonks in Texas,” Ryan said.

‘Tangled Up In Wranglers’ is not a deeply personal song for Ryan, but rather a fun departure from his usual style.

The debut single, produced by Jy Perry-Banks, is a collaborative effort with Ryan on guitar and drums, and Jy on bass and pedal steel. Ryan said he wanted the guitar riff to cut through and for the audience to feel like they’re in the groovy atmosphere of a bar.

“This is my debut radio single, and it feels like putting my foot in the door,” Ryan said.

“It’s still my first year, and I am extremely grateful for everything we’ve been able to do in these first 12 months. I’ve had the opportunity to meet incredible people, write new songs, and I genuinely hope people enjoy the music.”

The artist highlighted his major influences, citing the holy trinity of 90s country – Alan Jackson, George Strait, and Vince Gill. He also mentioned other inspirations such as Zach Top, Drake Milligan, Randall King, and Midland.

Looking ahead, Ryan plans to embark on a busy schedule of gigs until he heads off in May. His itinerary includes a trip to the United States, where he will study guitar and music at Berklee for 12 months. With aspirations to delve into bluegrass guitar and slide guitar, Mead intends to record at Berklee and release more music in the future.

Celebrate The Last Days Of Summer With Tori Darke’s Latest Banger ‘Simplest Things’.

Tori Darke returns in 2024 with a new offering that expresses simplicity with the one they love. Written a year ago at a songwriting camp in Sydney, Tori wanted to write a song about all the quirky and simple things in life that made her, and her husband fall in love. This song explores the narrative that the small things in life like drinking coffee together mean more than anything extravagant ever could.

Tori has certainly made her mark in country music. Known for her powerful vocals and heartfelt storytelling, this exciting artist has continued to release hit songs over the last few years that have resonated with country music lovers across the country as well as radio and industry tastemakers.

Previous singles ‘Feelin’ It’ and ‘Somewhere In Mexico’ were added across the board on all major country music stations including KIX Country, ABC Country, Triple M Country, iHeartCountry and Australian Country Radio resulting in high chart success with both songs in the major Countrytown Hottest charts at the same time. In addition, Tori received major support on Spotify’s Fresh Country and New Music Friday as well as Apple Music’s Today’s Country, Back Porch Country, Aussie Country, New Music Daily, Lil Bit Country and YouTube Music’s Incoming Country.

A constant fan favourite at festivals, and events, Tori always brings energy to the stage as well as engaging storytelling and compelling vocals. In addition to her solo and festival shows, Tori has been out on the road touring as part of Lee Kernaghan’s band across the country.

‘Simplest Things’ is a fun summer anthem that makes you want to jump in the car, put the top down and scream Lady A as loud as you can!

Tori Darke’s new single ‘Simplest Things’ is out to radio and all digital platforms on Wednesday 28th February.

Multi-award-winning country star and world class musician Dierks Bentley today releases his take on the Tom Petty classic, “American Girl.” The free-spirited, bluegrass-tinged track officially impacts country radio today (via Big Machine Records/The Valory Music Co.) and is from the forthcoming Tom Petty tribute album, Petty Country: A Country Music Celebration of Tom Petty to be released by Big Machine in partnership with the Tom Petty Estate. The album brings together the top Country and Americana artists to create a tribute to Petty’s musical legacy.

Of the song, Bentley shares, “Petty’s southern roots shined through across his songwriting and storytelling. He might not have ever been considered as country, but you can’t go into a bar in Nashville without hearing this song. It is one of the greatest songs in a life’s work of great American songs. The spirit of this woman, the idea of such relentless hope – and disappointment – ignites such a spark. Jon and I were driven to make that feeling of American roots stand tall.”

Now considered as one of Petty’s greatest hits (Billboard, Hollywood Reporter and Rolling Stone), Bentley’s banjo-forward, spirited reimagination of “American Girl” is a festival of swirling fiddles, right hand organ figures and mandolin runs complimented by a pre-bridge breakdown that reinforces the stop/start nature of the moment.

Bentley and producer Jon Randall recruited A-list session players Chad Cromwell on drums, Craig Young on bass, Rob McNelley and Randall himself on electric guitars, as well as Jimmy Wallace on piano and B-3. They also drafted acclaimed musicians Noam Pikelny on banjo, Andy Leftwich on fiddle and mandolin, and Chris Eldridge on acoustic guitar for the sweeping consideration of the desperation, dreams and betrayals plaguing a girl “raised on promises.” The instrumentation teams with Bentley’s vocals, equal part witness and mercy capturing the song’s urgency and injecting Petty’s signature pride and defiance even in the roughest places.

Josh Setterfield is kicking 2024 off with a bang and there’s no slowing down in sight. One of the most exciting and unparalleled country music entertainers, Josh has not only captured the hearts of Australia but is rapidly gaining global recognition. After a recent sold out headline show in Brisbane to finish his ‘Kinda World Tour’; debuting at #2 on the ARIA Charts for the first time with EP “RISE” now comes the highly anticipated new single “Something That You Just Might Like “out now.

An earworm from the first listen, the infectious melody will have you humming the hook for days. “Something That You Just Might Like” transports you to your favourite country party in three minutes, combining good friends, beers and good times. This track has been in the catalogue for some time, just waiting for this moment.

Josh Setterfield says “I wrote a pretty laid-back party track to get myself out of writer’s block, I played it at some shows and people went WILD for it, singing along before it had even ended. It’s been the best response I’ve EVER had for an unreleased song and people have said it reminds them of early Florida Georgia Line vibes. Bro country revival 2024 what’s good!? haha”.

Following the success of his ‘Kinda World Tour’ in 2023, which saw him perform at festivals across Australia, United States, United Kingdom and a sold-out headline show in Canada, Josh is delivering an international, high-energy show unlike anyone is seeing in country music. Captivating audiences around the globe with a charismatic, engaging, and highly entertaining concert experience.

Throughout 2023, Josh’s career skyrocketed with his fan base growing exponentially alongside his achievements. His last EP “RISE”,’ featuring hit singles “Right About Now” and “Better Off” amassed over 7 million streams, consecutive CMT #1’s, global radio support, features and charting. There is no stopping his rise as 2024 promises to be just as big with more new music and touring, but first Josh is set to make his debut at the prestigious CMC Rocks, a sold-out festival boasting some of the world’s biggest country stars, including Tyler Hubbard, Lainey Wilson, and Chris Young. Don’t miss the chance to see Josh live as he aims to elevate country music shows to new heights.

Andy Penkow Unveils Second Single “Bottom Shelf” from Highly Anticipated 4th Studio Album, “Shades On Me”

Australian singer/songwriter Andy Penkow is set to captivate audiences once again with the release of his second single, “Bottom Shelf,” a compelling preview of his forthcoming 4th studio album, “Shades On Me.” The album, recorded and produced in Ontario, Canada by the acclaimed Shawn Moore, is scheduled for release in May 2024.

“Bottom Shelf” takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through an old school country drinking song, featuring a gritty, bluesy tone that resonates with authenticity. The track invites audiences to traverse the winding lanes of memory, embracing the simplicity of life’s pleasures and detaching from the tumultuous drama that often surrounds us.

Speaking about the new single, Andy said:

“Sometimes we have those days where nothing goes our way, whether it be work-related, relationships, or life in general, and everything feels like it’s falling apart. One constant that you can often rely on is a soothing cheap drink at the bar, free of judgment.”

The creative process behind the single was a collaborative effort, bringing together the talents of Andy Penkow and Canadian songwriters Shawn Moore and Jessica Sole. Expressing his enthusiasm for the project, Andy Penkow said:

“I have really enjoyed the process of writing and recording this new single. I got to work with some incredible Canadian songwriters, Shawn and Jessica, who were able to provide a very interesting North American perspective to the song’s lyrics and composition.”

As a passionate artist dedicated to his craft, Andy emphasizes the significance of “Bottom Shelf” as a true reflection of his artistic identity. “I’m so passionate about my music, and I’m really happy with how ‘Bottom Shelf’ turned out because the tone, vocals, and style of this single are such a strong reflection of the type of artist that I am. I put my heart and soul into everything that I do, and you can hear that in every line of the song.”